Sechin, Manturov, Chemezov to represent Russia at Chavez funeral

The RF president expressed his deep condolences to Vice President of the Republic Nicolas Maduro and the Venezuelan people over the death of Chavez

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NOVOSIBIRSK, March 6 (Itar-Tass) – At the decision of Russia’s President Vladimir Putin Russia will delegate special presidential representative Igor Sechin, co-chairman of the bilateral inter-governmental commission Denis Manturov and head of the Russian Technologies corporation (Rostekhnologii) Sergei Chemezov to the funeral of Venezuela’s President Hugo Chavez, RF presidential press-secretary Dmitry Peskov told reporters.

“By decision of the President of Russia, Vladimir Putin, the Russian side will be represented at the funeral of Venezuelan President Hugo Chavez by Igor Sechin in the status of the Special Representative of President of Russia, Denis Manturov as co-chair of the bilateral intergovernmental commission and Sergei Chemezov (head of Rostekhnologii),” Peskov said.

Hugo Chavez, who led the Bolivarian Republic since 1999, died on Tuesday afternoon after a long illness. The Venezuelan government has announced a seven-day mourning period, the lying-in-state ceremony of the leader of the Bolivarian revolution will be held during three days: on Wednesday, Thursday and Friday.

The Constitution of the country stipulates that in the event of demise of the president, the functions of the head of state are transferred to the chairman of the National Assembly (unicameral parliament), which first thing announces within 30 days a new presidential election.

The RF president expressed his deep condolences to Vice President of the Republic Nicolas Maduro and the Venezuelan people over the death of Chavez, whom he described as an outstanding leader and manager, a close friend of Russia.

Putin, who has repeatedly met with Chavez, has noted his outstanding qualities, the Kremlin press service reported. “He was an extraordinary and strong man, who looked into the future, and always set the highest standards for himself,” the telegram of condolences says.

The Russian president praised the personal efforts of the Venezuelan leader, thanks to which a solid foundation for the Russian-Venezuelan partnership was laid, strong political ties were developed and large-scale humanitarian and development projects were launched, as well as expressed confidence that it is necessary to continue on this path, strengthening and developing the relationship between Russia and Venezuela.

Putin stressed that Venezuelans’ inherent resistance and vital energy will help them overcome the difficulties and continue the noble cause of creating a strong, independent and prosperous Bolivarian Republic of Venezuela.